The recommerce market in South Korea is expected to grow by 11.0% on annual basis to reach US$5.28 billion in 2025.
The recommerce market in the country experienced robust growth during 2020-2024, achieving a CAGR of 13.3%. This upward trajectory is expected to continue, with the market forecast to grow at a CAGR of 9.2% during 2025-2029. By the end of 2029, the recommerce market is projected to expand from its 2024 value of USD 4.75 billion to approximately USD 7.51 billion.
This report provides a detailed data-centric analysis of the recommerce market in South Korea, covering market opportunities and risks across consumer segments (peer-to-peer and business-led resale); product categories; sales channels; and resale formats. With over 60+ KPIs at the country level, this report provides a comprehensive understanding of recommerce market dynamics.
It offers a comprehensive analysis of market dynamics in the recommerce market, segmented by recommerce channels (C2C, B2C, trade-in programs), sales models (resale, rental, refurbishment), platform types (generalist and vertical-specific), digital engagement (app, website, social media), and retail categories (electronics, apparel, home goods, and more). In addition, it provides a snapshot of consumer behaviour, device usage, payment preferences, and city-level penetration across Tier 1 to Tier 3 cities.
The publisher’s research methodology is based on industry best practices. Its unbiased analysis leverages a proprietary analytics platform to offer a detailed view of emerging business and investment market opportunities.
Fashion and electronics resale are formalizing through digital platforms, OEM partnerships, and ESG-aligned business models. Over the next 2-4 years, Korea’s recommerce market is expected to consolidate into professionally managed, compliance-driven ecosystems across key consumer categories.
The recommerce market in the country experienced robust growth during 2020-2024, achieving a CAGR of 13.3%. This upward trajectory is expected to continue, with the market forecast to grow at a CAGR of 9.2% during 2025-2029. By the end of 2029, the recommerce market is projected to expand from its 2024 value of USD 4.75 billion to approximately USD 7.51 billion.
This report provides a detailed data-centric analysis of the recommerce market in South Korea, covering market opportunities and risks across consumer segments (peer-to-peer and business-led resale); product categories; sales channels; and resale formats. With over 60+ KPIs at the country level, this report provides a comprehensive understanding of recommerce market dynamics.
It offers a comprehensive analysis of market dynamics in the recommerce market, segmented by recommerce channels (C2C, B2C, trade-in programs), sales models (resale, rental, refurbishment), platform types (generalist and vertical-specific), digital engagement (app, website, social media), and retail categories (electronics, apparel, home goods, and more). In addition, it provides a snapshot of consumer behaviour, device usage, payment preferences, and city-level penetration across Tier 1 to Tier 3 cities.
The publisher’s research methodology is based on industry best practices. Its unbiased analysis leverages a proprietary analytics platform to offer a detailed view of emerging business and investment market opportunities.
Key Insights
Recommerce in South Korea Is Growing Through Platform Integration, Tech-Enabled Fashion Resale, and Regulatory Circularity Goals
South Korea’s recommerce market is shifting from peer-based secondhand transactions to structured, tech-enabled resale ecosystems. Fashion and electronics remain leading verticals, supported by digital platforms, logistics infrastructure, and national policies linked to circular economy goals.Fashion and electronics resale are formalizing through digital platforms, OEM partnerships, and ESG-aligned business models. Over the next 2-4 years, Korea’s recommerce market is expected to consolidate into professionally managed, compliance-driven ecosystems across key consumer categories.
Fashion Recommerce Is Scaling Through Brand-Led Resale and Online Platforms
- Fashion resale in South Korea is being driven by platforms like KREAM (sneakers, streetwear), Bunjang, and Karrot. Department stores and fashion brands are also experimenting with resale offerings.
- High smartphone penetration, a strong online resale culture, and millennial/Gen Z fashion consciousness are key drivers. Limited-edition sneaker resale has gained legitimacy through verification services and branded storefronts.
- Expect further verticalization in resale platforms - e.g., more segmented fashion, sportswear, or luxury resale sites - and increased integration with e-commerce and logistics platforms.
Electronics Recommerce Is Expanding Through OEM-Backed and Carrier Trade-In Programs
- Samsung and LG operate structured trade-in and refurbishment programs in partnership with telecom providers like SK Telecom and KT. Local platform Aladin also sells certified pre-owned electronics.
- Consumer price sensitivity, frequent upgrade cycles, and growing e-waste volumes are driving demand for structured electronics resale.
- With growing institutional focus, electronics trade-in and resale programs will expand across online and offline channels. Platforms offering diagnostics and certification will grow in relevance.
Livestream and Community-Driven Recommerce Is Influencing Purchase Behavior
- Platforms like Karrot and Danggeun Market are popular for local, peer-to-peer resale. Features such as in-app messaging, real-time listings, and community reviews are widely used.
- Urban density, mobile-first digital behavior, and trust-based community dynamics make local resale convenient and low-friction.
- Livestream resale and social validation will continue to grow, especially for low-ticket categories. These models may coexist with formal platforms for high-value goods.
Circular Economy Policies Are Influencing Corporate Reuse and Recycling Models
- South Korea’s Resource Circulation Framework Act mandates waste reduction, encouraging OEMs and retailers to engage in resale, take-back, and recycling.
- Extended Producer Responsibility regulations and climate targets under the 2050 Carbon Neutral Strategy are incentivizing corporate circularity initiatives.
- ESG-linked reuse operations and impact tracking will expand across consumer sectors. More brands will formalize recommerce as part of sustainability reporting.
Logistics and Fulfilment Innovation Is Supporting Growth of Structured Recommerce
- Startups and logistics providers are enabling resale flows by offering diagnostics, grading, packaging, and delivery services. This includes last-mile and reverse logistics.
- South Korea’s advanced delivery infrastructure supports fast resale cycles. Marketplaces are embedding logistics to drive customer trust and convenience.
- Logistics-backed recommerce will become essential for scale, especially in electronics and apparel. New startups are likely to emerge to serve this value chain.
Competitive Landscape in South Korea Is Defined by Specialized Platforms, OEM Participation, and Policy-Aligned Retail Pilots
South Korea’s recommerce landscape is maturing with differentiated platforms in fashion and electronics, along with growing institutional focus on circularity. Competitive dynamics are shaped by platform features, resale legitimacy, and regulatory alignment. The competitive landscape in South Korea is increasingly defined by platform specialization, regulatory support, and high consumer expectations around trust and speed. Strategic success will depend on integration of verification, logistics, and sustainability metrics into recommerce operations.- Specialized vertical platforms are likely to expand in luxury, kidswear, and refurbished electronics.
- Policy incentives and ESG reporting pressure will drive more brands to internalize resale.
- Logistics partnerships will support scale and trust in both peer-to-peer and structured resale models.
Fashion Recommerce Is Driven by Vertical Platforms and Authenticity Infrastructure
- KREAM specializes in sneaker and streetwear resale, offering price tracking and product verification. It is backed by Naver and has emerged as the dominant vertical platform.
- Bunjang and Danggeun Market (Karrot) support broader secondhand transactions with large user bases and in-app transaction tools. Their influence extends beyond fashion into general goods.
- Platforms emphasize verification, escrow payments, and user ratings to build trust.
Electronics Recommerce Is Anchored by Samsung, LG, and Telecom Resale Programs
- Samsung and LG operate formal trade-in programs in partnership with carriers like SK Telecom and KT. Devices are refurbished and resold via official retail or online channels.
- Aladin, an online bookstore, has expanded into certified used electronics through buy-back programs.
- Electronics recommerce is often bundled with upgrade plans or loyalty incentives through telco platforms.
Community Platforms Maintain Scale in Peer-to-Peer Resale
- Karrot (Danggeun Market) continues to lead in local resale, enabling neighborhood-level transactions in metro areas like Seoul.
- Trust is built through proximity, user verification, and active community moderation.
- While informal, these platforms account for high transaction volumes across apparel, gadgets, and household items.
Retailers and Brands Are Launching Pilot Circular Programs in Response to Policy
- Brands and retail conglomerates are experimenting with resale, particularly in fashion and electronics, as part of their ESG strategy.
- Some department stores are piloting resale counters or partnering with online platforms.
- These initiatives are often linked to compliance with the Resource Circulation Framework and EPR mandates.
Scope
This report offers a comprehensive, data-centric analysis of the recommerce market in South Korea, supported by 40+ tables and 55+ charts. The databook provides detailed forecasts and key performance indicators across transaction value, volume, and market share trends from 2020 to 2029. Below is a summary of the key market segments covered:South Korea Recommerce Market Size and Growth Dynamics
- Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) Trend Analysis
- Average Transaction Value Trend Analysis
- Transaction Volume Trend Analysis
South Korea Recommerce Market Size and Forecast by Sector
- Retail Shopping
- Home Improvement
- Other Sectors
South Korea Recommerce Market Size and Forecast by Retail Category
- Apparel & Accessories
- Consumer Electronics
- Home Appliances
- Home Décor & Essentials
- Books, Toys & Hobbies
- Automotive Parts & Accessories
- Sports & Fitness Equipment
- Other Product Categories
South Korea Recommerce by Channel
- Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C)
- Business-to-Consumer (B2C)
- Retailer Trade-In & Buyback Programs
South Korea Recommerce by Sales Model
- Resale
- Rental
- Refurbishment & Certified Pre-Owned
South Korea Recommerce by Digital Engagement Channel
- Website-Based Resale
- App-Based Resale
- Social Media Driven Resale
South Korea Recommerce by Platform Type
- Generalist Marketplaces
- Vertical-Specific Platforms
South Korea Recommerce by Device and OS
- Mobile vs Desktop
- Android, iOS
South Korea Recommerce by City Tier
- Tier 1 Cities
- Tier 2 Cities
- Tier 3 Cities
South Korea Recommerce by Payment Instrument
- Credit Card
- Debit Card
- Bank Transfer
- Prepaid Card
- Digital & Mobile Wallets
- Other Digital Payments
- Cash
South Korea Recommerce Market Share Analysis
- Market Share by Key Players
- Competitive Landscape Overview
South Korea Recommerce by Consumer Demographics
- Market Share by Age Group
- Market Share by Income Level
- Market Share by Gender
Reasons to buy
- Market Insights for Growth and Innovation: Navigate the future direction of the recommerce market by understanding business models adopted by key players - including resale, refurbishment, and rental formats. Leverage market share estimates to assess innovation, positioning, and growth opportunities.
- In-depth Understanding of Recommerce Market Dynamics: Gain a detailed view of market structure and growth trends across core sectors such as retail shopping, automotive, and home improvement. Understand key drivers shaping recommerce adoption through 2029.
- Value and Volume KPIs for Market Sizing: Utilize gross merchandise value (GMV), transaction volume, and average transaction value at the national level to quantify the overall market opportunity with precision.
- Competitive Landscape and Market Share Intelligence: Benchmark against leading recommerce players using market share data across categories and channels. Inform strategic decisions by understanding the current and emerging competitive landscape.
- Channel-Level and Digital Engagement Insights: Identify high-growth channels including C2C, B2C, and retailer-led trade-in programs. Track consumer activity across app, web, and social platforms to align digital strategies with behavior.
- Consumer Segmentation and Demand Patterns: Target growth opportunities by analyzing consumer behavior segmented by age group, income level, gender, and city tier. Adapt business models to evolving spending dynamics and platform preferences.
Table of Contents
1. About this Report
2. South Korea Recommerce Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics
4. South Korea Recommerce Market Share by Key Revenue Segments
5. South Korea Recommerce Market Size and Forecast by Key Sectors
6. South Korea Recommerce Market Size and Forecast by Retail Shopping Categories
7. South Korea Recommerce Market Size and Forecast by Recommerce Channels
8. South Korea Recommerce Market Size and Forecast by Sales Model
9. South Korea Recommerce Market Size and Forecast by Digital Engagement Channel
10. South Korea Recommerce Market Size and Forecast by Platform Type
11. South Korea Recommerce Market Size and Forecast by Device
12. South Korea Recommerce Market Size and Forecast by Operating System
13. South Korea Recommerce Market Size and Forecast by Cities
14. South Korea Recommerce Market Size and Forecast by Payment Instrument
15. South Korea Recommerce by Consumer Demographics
16. Further Reading
List of Tables
List of Figures
Table Information
| Report Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| No. of Pages | 83 |
| Published | June 2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2025 - 2029 |
| Estimated Market Value ( USD | $ 5.28 Billion |
| Forecasted Market Value ( USD | $ 7.51 Billion |
| Compound Annual Growth Rate | 9.2% |
| Regions Covered | South Korea |
